Biography

Rev. Nathan A. Russell graduated from Brite Divinity School in May 2014 and was ordained in the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ). As the Admissions Associate, Rev. Russell recruits on behalf of the institution, walking alongside women and men who wish to lead in the ministry of Christ’s church, the academy and public life as witnesses to God’s reconciling and transforming love and justice.

Prior to matriculating at Brite, Rev. Russell, a seventh-generation native Texan, taught choral music at the high school and collegiate levels. His choirs consistently achieved sweepstakes ratings at the University Interscholastic League Concert & Sightreading contests. In February 2007, he assisted and accompanied the Canyon High School Women’s Choir performance at the Texas Music Educators Association Clinic and Convention in San Antonio. During his tenure at Tyler Junior College, he led the choirs in performances of major works and a concert with GRAMMY-winning artist, Cynthia Clawson. In 2010, his choirs were invited to sing with contemporary composer, Eric Whitacre, at Carnegie Hall.

While a student at Brite, Rev. Russell served as a research assistant to Rev. Dr. Russell W. Dalton, Professor of Religious Education, the co-student coordinator of the Carpenter Initiative for Gender, Sexuality and Justice, and the graduate assistant/chapel choir director for the 2013-2014 academic year. Rev. Russell is a two-time recipient of the Granville and Erline Walker Preaching Award, the Barrett T. Moore Preaching Award, and three book awards from Brite faculty. He refers to his student-life at Brite as life-giving, loving, and liberating.

In addition to his present role at Brite, Rev. Russell serves Cochran Chapel United Methodist Church, the oldest deeded and dedicated church in Dallas County, as its music minister. Apart from his professional and ministerial work, Rev. Russell enjoys an active life of exercise, travel, and spoiling his ferocious Labrador retriever, Sadie.